Germany,  is the largest country in Central Europe. Germany is politically, economically and culturally influential, and is the largest European Union member state by population and economic output. Known around the world for "German engineering" as well as world leading banking and insurance companies, it is equally admired by visitors for its old-world charm and Gemütlichkeit (cosiness). Discard any perceptions of Germany as simply homogeneous, and a country of surprising regional diversity awaits.

Germany is very much a decentralised country, which does justice to the cultural differences between the regions. Some travellers will perhaps only think of beer, Lederhosen and Oktoberfest when Germany comes to mind, but Germany's famous alpine and beer culture is mostly in Bavaria and Munich. Germany's south-western regions, however, are well known for their wine growing areas.

Immigration has also played a large part in Germany since World War II, with approximately 20% of the total population being either foreign or of a 'migrant background'. Many cities have large communities of Turks, Poles, Italians as well as people from Southern and Eastern Europe or the Middle East. Many cities have a vibrant LGBT scene, especially Berlin and Cologne.

- Wikivoyage